In a Certain Land

In this mini-episode, composer Natalie Wilson shares some updates about the podcast and explains why there haven't been new episodes lately.  After overcoming some significant technical issues, we are returning to a regular bi-weekly posting schedule at the end of March.  Thanks for listening!

A beautiful young girl named Vasilissa loses her mother to unexpected illness. Naturally, her father marries again. And the stepmother, although beautiful, just can't stand Vasilissa.  Sound familiar? Yes, this might be the Russian version of Cinderella. But you've never heard a Cinderella like this. Animate dolls, huts on chicken feet, talking fire-eyed skulls, witches traveling in huge mortars... this is Russian fairy tales at their wildest, darkest, but also most beautiful. 

When a wander-lusting king accidentally breaks the laws of hospitality when quenching his thirst, he is forced to give his only son as a hostage to a dangerous king of the underwater lands.  But this prince is no pampered ninny. He understands the value of hospitality and kindness. And so he gets some unlooked-for help...

In our first story, I'm delving into the "Ivan the Fool" cycle. It's a fun, silly, but ultimately profound tale about how true wisdom and beauty is rarely skin deep. Please do share this podcast with your friends! We rely on your good word to get the story out into the world :)